Chicago to put unused NATO funds toward parks

CHICAGO – Millions of leftover dollars from the spring’s NATO summit in Chicago will go toward improving the city’s parks, constructing boathouses along the Chicago River and other recreational projects.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel revealed his plan Saturday to use roughly $7 million – most of it NATO surplus funds. The mayor said Saturday that approximately $6 million of privately raised funds will go toward the city projects and $1 million will come from the Chicago Park District’s capital funds. He specifically outlined five city parks that will get $2.5 million for renovations.